Winemaker Notes
The 2019 Signature Merlot is at once seamless and complex, promising a rewarding wine experience right now and for a decade to come. Deep floral and enticing dark plum aromas introduce a poised and polished 2019 Merlot. Winegrowing on our high elevation Sage Vineyard on Mount Veeder provides power and earthy complexity to the wine's core, while our valley floor estates lend a more saturated profile of vibrant fruits. A refined medley of dark Rainier cherries and dried cranberries are accentuated by savory notes of oolong tea, cinnamon stick, and Tahitian vanilla.
As Napa Valley’s third most planted grape, Napa Valley Merlot shows time and time again its potential to produce exceptional results. Napa’s vaunted combination of climate, soil and the human factor of winemaking expertise lead to big, ripe, cellar-worthy and world-class versions.
Whether made by itself in single varietal bottlings or as an important role in Bordeaux Blends, Merlot continues a prominent role in this famous region. While Cabernet typically takes the lead role, Merlot’s contribution—even at 10% to 20% or so—is significant indeed. Often described as “the flesh on Cabernet’s bones,” Merlot lends a soft, round and plush character that beautifully complements Cabernet’s linear, full-throttle structure. Its flavors of plums plus subtle herbs and mint also dovetail nicely with Cabernet’s blackberry and cassis.